Ash Wednesday marks the first day of Lent, 40 days before Easter (Sundays are not included). Lent is a time when many Christians prepare for Easter by observing a period of fasting, repentance, moderation and spiritual discipline, sometimes giving things up and sometimes taking on something new, or raising money for a charitable cause. During the Ash Wednesday service, the priest will make the sign of the cross with ashes on the foreheads of worshipers, saying “Remember that you are dust, and to dust you shall return. Turn away from sin and be faithful to Christ”. The ash is made by burning last Easter’s Palm Crosses and mixing with a little holy water – you can bring yours to church on the Sunday before if you still have it.